The past of Britain, with its mysterious monuments, atmospheric sites, enigmatic objects, bloody legends, and cryptic inscriptions, is as alluring as it is complex for the resident of the twenty-first century. In this ambitious and informed book, Ronald Hutton reveals the long development, rapid suppression, and continuous cultural significance of paganism, from the Paleolithic era to the advent of Christianity. He presents a series of recently discovered elements that have radically changed the understanding of faith and rituals in Britain before the advent of organized religion.

Providing a chronological narrative, Hutton explores specific sites of ancient pagan activity. It includes renowned sacred places—Stonehenge, Avebury, Seahenge, Maiden Castle, Anglesey—as well as more obscure locations throughout the mainland and coastal islands. In his persistence to uncover the elusive “why” of pagan behavior, Hutton surprises with the breadth of his understanding of Britain's deep past and inspires with the originality of his thoughts.